Tamar Ridge Grand Assemblage Pinot Noir 2022 

The first release of this wine comes from fruit taken from the best parcel of the lauded Kayena Vineyard. Lovely aromatic depth on show from the outset. Ripe raspberry and heady ripe red florals meld with cinnamon and nutmeg spice with integrated cedar oak beneath. There’s an undercurrent of earth, forest floor and pan juice umami that emerges with a swirl of the glass, too. Excellent complexity and poise aromatically, causing excitement for what’s to come. There’s brilliant lift through the palate, with nothing cumbersome nor weighty while still wonderfully intense. Raspberry and earth glide through the mouth, with nutmeg and red rose neatly in tow before ribbons of svelte chalky tannins and a wash of earthy acidity frame it all to a long finish as red florals permeate the mouth perfume. This is a strong inaugural release with elegance, balance and complexity in spades. For those who can wait, time in cellar will see the earth and umami notes unfurl beautifully.